Rat Kiley in "The Things They Carried": Carrying Emotional Burdens

The Vietnam War was not only a physical battle but also a psychological one for the soldiers who fought in it. Tim O'Brien's novel, "The Things They Carried," explores the emotional toll of war through the experiences of various characters, including Rat Kiley. Rat Kiley, the platoon's medic, carries not only his medical supplies but also immense emotional burdens throughout the narrative. This essay will delve into the emotional weight Rat Kiley carries, examining the impact it has on him and the broader implications it highlights within the context of war.

Rat Kiley carries the emotional burden of witnessing the horrors of war. The text repeatedly emphasizes his experiences, such as when he patches up Curt Lemon after his fatal accident with a rigged 105 round. This incident serves as a turning point for Rat Kiley, as it showcases the emotional toll that war takes on him. This burden is evident in his emotional breakdowns, as seen when he shoots himself in the foot to escape the war. Such instances highlight the psychological strain Rat Kiley endures and provide compelling evidence of the emotional weight he carries.

Moreover, Rat Kiley carries the emotional burden of guilt. As a medic, he is responsible for saving lives, but he also witnesses the loss of lives firsthand. One example is when he blames himself for the death of a young Vietnamese soldier in "Night Life." This guilt haunts him, and it becomes a constant companion throughout his time in Vietnam. The emotional toll of guilt is evident in his actions, such as his excessive drug use to numb the pain. By exploring Rat Kiley's guilt, the novel sheds light on the moral complexities faced by those involved in war.

In addition to guilt, Rat Kiley carries the emotional burden of compassion. Despite the horrors he witnesses, he remains empathetic towards his fellow soldiers. One instance is when he tends to Tim O'Brien's wounds after he steps on a landmine. Rat Kiley's emotional connection to his comrades is further exemplified in his storytelling abilities, which provide a sense of comfort and escapism for the soldiers. This emotional burden of compassion showcases Rat Kiley's resilience and highlights the importance of emotional support in the midst of war.

Rat Kiley's emotional burdens also manifest in his interactions with Mary Anne Bell. As he falls in love with her, he carries the weight of romantic emotions amidst the chaos of war. However, this relationship ultimately adds to his emotional burden, as Mary Anne transforms into a savage and ultimately disappears into the jungle. The emotional weight of losing a loved one in such circumstances only intensifies Rat Kiley's already heavy load, emphasizing the devastating effects of war on personal relationships.

Rat Kiley's character in "The Things They Carried" showcases the emotional burdens that soldiers carry during wartime. Through witnessing the horrors of war, feeling guilt, displaying compassion, and experiencing lost love, Rat Kiley's emotional journey provides a window into the psychological impact of war. By exploring the emotional weight Rat Kiley carries, readers gain a deeper understanding of the toll that war takes on individuals. This understanding prompts us to reflect on the broader implications of war and the importance of acknowledging and addressing the emotional well-being of those affected by conflict.

Bibliography:
O'Brien, Tim. The Things They Carried. Houghton Mifflin, 1990.